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As tension escalates along the India-Pakistan border, an extraordinary spiritual and humanitarian effort is quietly unfolding in Punjab’s border belt — the dignified shifting of over sacred saroops (copies) of the Sikh holy scripture, Sri Guru Granth Sahib, from vulnerable villages to safer locations.
In Fazilka, Gurudwara Singh Sabha has become a temporary sanctuary for the 50 revered saroops brought from villages within five kilometers of the border, where fear and uncertainty loom.
This initiative, guided by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), underscored the deep spiritual sensitivity and reverence with which the Guru Granth Sahib is held. “So far, more than 50 saroops have been respectfully brought from various border gurudwaras and housed here,” confirmed Bhai Jagjit Singh, a member of SGPC’s Dharam Prachar Committee. The transfer is being carried out using specially arranged palki buses provided by Abohar-based Sukhmani Sewa Society. At every arrival, ardas (prayers) are offered for peace and to avert war.
However, the relocation has not been without emotional resistance. In Gurdaspur’s border village of Kahna, SGPC members faced a wave of heartfelt protest from local Sikh families who refused to part with the saroops.
“We’ll protect Guru Sahib with our lives. If we have to leave our village, the Guru will go first, but we won’t allow any harm to the saroop,” said Satnam Singh, a local resident. The SGPC respected the villagers’ faith and did not proceed with the transfer.
A similar operation is underway in Amritsar and Tarn Taran, where 27 saroops have already been respectfully moved to Gurudwara Ramsar Sahib. Officials are working with utmost caution and coordination to ensure dignity and sanctity are preserved throughout the process.
Back in Amritsar city, despite border tensions and missile attack fears, the Golden Temple remains calm. “The environment in Guru’s house is completely peaceful,” said Bhagwant Singh, manager of the Golden Temple, urging devotees not to be swayed by rumours.
“Langar is running 24/7 and arrangements for lodging are in place. Devotees should come fearlessly and seek blessings.”
While spiritual sanctity is being safeguarded, these unprecedented relocations also reflect the anxiety shadowing Punjab’s border villages.
Guru Granth Sahib Saroops Shifted from Border Villages to Safer Sanctuaries
Saturday, 10 May 2025 | Monika Malik
| Chandigarh
Guru Granth Sahib Saroops Shifted from Border Villages to Safer Sanctuaries
Saturday, 10 May 2025 | Monika Malik | Chandigarh
